Independent mariner education resource, for information only. Do your own due diligence. Not affiliated with the U.S. Coast Guard or National Maritime Center.
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Before You Spend Money on Maritime Training

Six things to check first, so a surprise doesn't cost you a course fee, a season, or a career.

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By Captain Mike · 50 years at sea · former MITAGS faculty
September 2026
For information only. This page points you to general guidance. It is not an eligibility decision. Only the Coast Guard's National Maritime Center, TSA, your employer or another authorized decision-maker can decide your individual case. Do your own due diligence and confirm everything with official sources.

Check these before you pay for anything

Every year people spend thousands on courses, travel and exams, then find out something in their medical history, driving record or drug-test history holds up their credential. Most of these issues are manageable, and many aren't disqualifying at all. But you want to know about them before the money is spent, not after.

Work through these in order. Each one takes you to a full guide.

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1. Medical fitness

Vision, color vision, hearing, physical ability, medications, and how waivers work.

Open guide →
⚠️

2. Drugs, alcohol & DUI

Marijuana and federal testing, alcohol rules, DUIs, criminal history, and honest disclosure.

Open guide →
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3. TWIC & first MMC

What the first credential takes, in order, and the traps first-time applicants hit.

Open guide →
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4. Sea time that counts

What the NMC credits, how to document it, and why sloppy records cost months.

Open guide →
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5. The right training

Which courses you actually need, and how to confirm a course is currently approved.

Open guide →
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6. When to get help

When a complicated record is worth an expert's review before you file.

Open guide →

Five questions to answer honestly

Can I pass the Coast Guard medical?

If you have a condition, take medication, or aren't sure about your eyesight or hearing, see an examiner before you buy a course.

Can I pass a DOT drug test, and keep passing them?

Random testing is part of the job, at home and at sea. State marijuana laws don't change that.

Is there anything in my record I'll need to disclose?

DUIs, convictions and prior test results may need to be reported. Get your official records first.

Can I document the sea time I think I have?

Time you can't prove doesn't count. Line up signers and records now.

Is this the right credential for the job I want?

OUPV or Master? Inland or Near Coastal? Compare before you enroll. See OUPV / Six-Pack and Master 100 Ton.

Before enrolling: Training completion does not guarantee issuance of an MMC, medical qualification, employment, or approval of any waiver or suitability review. Confirm that you understand the current credential, medical, drug-testing, and background-review requirements before paying for training.
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